If making any ventilator circuit changes, watch for the possible complications related to breaching the circuit, including:
Airway obstruction, Displacement of the artificial airway and Equipment failure (from reestablishing connections improperly).
Monitor the patient's cardiopulmonary status. The patient could be adversely affected if there is an interruption in the ventilator-assisted breathing. This could occur if the patient is receiving positive end expiratory pressure or pressure support. In this case, the patient may need to be manually ventilated with a bag valve device and oxygen during a circuit change. Follow the physician's advice.